FAQ - Security

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Do you have a question about ImmerVision’s panoramic security lenses? You’ll probably find the answer below. If not, contact us and we'll be glad to assist you.

Questions by Category

1 - About view angle
2 - About the optical system
3 - About camera choices
4 - About functionality
5 - About video size
6 - About software installation
7 - Other

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1 - About view angle

What is the maximum view angle possible?

The maximum view is 360° x 180°. With a ceiling mount, the IMV1-1/3 optic lens allows you to view in all directions simultaneously. (More info).

Is a 360° view possible at all times, including in playback mode, or is recording limited to what is being viewed by the camera at any given time?

The image capture is always 360°, so it is possible to have a global view live and during playback.

Return to top

2 - About the optical system

Is it a mirror lens?

No, it is a panomorph lens (a very large anamorphic angle with enhanced resolution through optical distortion).

Unlike mirror systems (also called catadioptrics) or PAL (Panoramic Annular Lens) systems, the IMV1-1/3 optical lens has no blind zone at the center.

Also, the image resolution of the peripheral view (between 10° and 60° below the ceiling) is 2-3 times greater with the IMV1-1/3.

Is it a fisheye lens?

No, this is a panomorph lens (a very large anamorphic angle with enhanced resolution through optical distortion), which is quite different from a fisheye lens. A fisheye lens has a constant angular resolution that captures a round or circular image. The image captured by a panomorphic lens uses 30% more surface image (elliptic anamorphosis) than does a circular image. Plus, the perimeter resolution quality of the IMV1-1/3 is 2-3 times better than that of a fisheye lens, thanks to the variable distribution of the view angle.

In fact, this allows the IMV1-1/3 to cover 6x more surface area for 6x less pixel capacity. (For example, the image captured by an NTSC/PAL 350K pixel camera equipped with the IMV1-1/3 will be similar in quality to that of a 2M pixel camera equipped with a fisheye).

How complicated is it to install an IMV1-1/3 lens?

It’s not complicated at all. Install it the same way you would any other lens, on any camera with a standard CS mount (More info).

Return to top

3 - About camera choices

Which cameras are compatible with IMV1-1/3 optics?

All NTSC, PAL or IP cameras with a CS 1/3" mount will accommodate an IMV1-1/3 optical lens. ImmerVision recommends cameras with a minimum resolution of 640 x 480 (480 TV lines to 1.2 MP) for a good quality final image.

Does the IMV1-1/3 lens require an IP camera?

No. Because the IMV1-1/3 has a unique optical distortion system (which enhances the perimeter image quality), it works with all standard security cameras.

Return to top

4 - About functionality

What does the SDK (Software Development Kit) do, and what are the functionalities of the ImmerVision panoramic video visualization software?

Complete information

What are some of the key advantages of a 360° system?

• You have a simultaneous view of anywhere at any time
• You can synchronize and link events from one scene to many other cameras without losing track of the subject
• Because of this capability, it may be important to have the linked cameras mounted in key zones with a tighter lens capture. This allows the subject's face, for example, to be more recognizable
• You can also, if required, set up or allow a simpler and more efficient use of a high-speed powered PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom), without losing a single moment of the global view.

Can we use the zoom like with any mechanized dome?

Yes, the digital zoom functionality is as efficient for live visualization as it is for playback. However, the main use of a 360° system is for panoramic views, and not as a powerful zoom.

Return to top

5 - About video size

Is the recorded file from the ImmerVision lens larger?

No, it’s the same size as a standard video from a standard lens.

Return to top

6 - About software installation

What’s an SDK ?

ImmerVision’s SDK (Software Development Kit) is a kit containing ImmerVision’s video library, technical information, working examples and files (software modules) required to integrate the ImmerVision PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) functionality into the standard CCTV security system or systems that you currently use (More info).

Do we have to use ImmerVision’s SDK (Software Development Kit) and/or ImmerVision video library?

Yes. In order to eliminate image distortion, you need ImmerVision’s video library, which also add the functionalities of a typical PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera to obtain different simultaneous views in different directions for multiple, simultaneous end-users (More info).

Is it compatible with all DVRs and monitoring software?

Yes. ImmerVision’s SDK (Software Development Kit) can be integrated with all DVRs and existing monitoring software. This simple integration is done by the DVR manufacturer, with ImmerVision support as required (More info).

Is system calibration necessary when installing the IMV1-1/3?

No. The system includes an Automatic Calibration System (ACS) that recognizes the optics and makes all necessary adjustments. There is no need for any further adjustments to the security equipment.

Return to top

7 - Other

What is an IMV1-1/3?

This is the product name of the CCTV panomorph lens developed and marketed by ImmerVision (More info).

What is a 360° vision system?

This is the name of the complete system, including visualization software and optics.
These two elements combined allow a virtual PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom).

Is the ImmerVision PTZ solution mechanized in any way?

No, there are no moving parts; everything is digital.

Return to top